This creamy baked ricotta chicken is a simple and tasty dish! The tender chicken is topped with smooth ricotta and herbs, giving it a rich flavor everyone loves.
It’s like a warm hug on a plate! I love serving it with a side of pasta or bread to soak up that delicious sauce. Trust me, you’ll want seconds! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this dish because they cook evenly and absorb the flavors well. If you prefer dark meat, use chicken thighs instead for a juicier result.
Ricotta Cheese: This is the star of the dish! If you don’t have ricotta, use mascarpone for a creamier texture or cottage cheese, but blend it first for smoothness.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a nice depth of flavor. If you’re out, Pecorino Romano serves as a great substitute. Nutritional yeast can be used for a dairy-free option.
Seasonings: The Italian seasoning blend is fantastic, but you can try fresh herbs like basil or thyme if you have them. Fresh will brighten the dish!
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic is key for flavor. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can work, though the taste won’t be as vibrant.
How Do I Keep My Chicken Juicy While Baking?
Cooking chicken can be tricky, but keeping it juicy is easy with a few tips. First, searing the chicken in olive oil helps seal in moisture. Make sure your pan is hot enough to give that nice golden crust.
- Don’t overcook the chicken. As soon as it reaches 165°F (74°C), it’s done!
- Cover the baking dish with foil for the first part of baking to trap moisture, then uncover to let the cheese brown.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after baking. This allows the juices to redistribute!
Try these tips, and you’ll have tender, juicy chicken that pairs beautifully with the creamy ricotta topping! Enjoy!
Creamy Baked Ricotta Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
For the Cheese Mixture:
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
For Seasoning:
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or mix of basil, oregano, thyme)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy baked ricotta chicken takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 25-30 minutes to bake. So in total, you’re looking at around 40 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick and satisfying meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This way, it’s nice and hot when your chicken goes in!
2. Prepare the Chicken:
Pat the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel, which helps them sear nicely. Then, season both sides of the chicken with salt, pepper, and half of the Italian seasoning. This is where the flavor starts!
3. Mix the Cheese:
In a bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan, shredded mozzarella, minced garlic, and the remaining Italian seasoning. Stir until everything is well combined and creamy.
4. Sear the Chicken:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and sear them for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown. No need for them to be cooked through yet; we’re just giving them a nice color!
5. Bake the Chicken:
Transfer the seared chicken breasts to a baking dish. Now, generously spoon the creamy ricotta mixture over each piece. Make sure they’re well covered!
6. Cooking Time:
Place the baking dish in your preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), and the cheese is bubbly and golden.
7. Optional Broil:
If you like a crispy top, switch to broil for an additional 2-3 minutes until it’s just golden. Keep a close eye on it, as it can brown quickly!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Once done, take it out and let it rest for a minute. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil if you like, and serve it up with a delightful side salad, pasta, or your favorite veggies!
Dig in and enjoy your creamy baked ricotta chicken! It’s a delicious and heartwarming dish perfect for any occasion.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use a Different Type of Cheese?
Absolutely! If you prefer a stronger flavor, consider using goat cheese or feta instead of ricotta. For a creamier texture, mascarpone works well too. Feel free to mix and match your favorite cheeses!
Can I Prepare This Dish in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and cheese mixture a day ahead. Simply assemble everything in the baking dish, cover it with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, just remove the cover and let it sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before baking. This ensures even cooking!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover baked ricotta chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave or warm it in the oven until heated through. Add a splash of broth or cream to keep it moist while reheating if desired!
What Can I Serve with Creamy Baked Ricotta Chicken?
This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides! Consider serving it with pasta, rice, or a fresh salad. Roasted vegetables or garlic bread also make excellent accompaniments to soak up that luscious cheese sauce!
